Nintendo Says 3DS Won’t Become Region-Free, But the NX Could Be

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata has revealed that, despite calls to make its consoles region-free, that the handheld 3DS will remain locked. However, he admitted that there is a chance that the company’s new, in-development console, codenamed the NX, could be region-free.

During a recent investors meeting, Iawata was asked:

“When you were asked if you would lift the region locks at the Financial Results Briefing six months ago, you answered that you would take it into consideration. Please explain the current situation.”

Iwata answered:

“My understanding is that it is not realistic on the existing video game systems because unlocking them after they are already on the market poses a number of hurdles. On the other hand, regarding NX, we understand that many consumers hold such opinions and such suggestions exist in the market, and although we have nothing concrete at the moment, we are internally analyzing what hurdles exist to lifting region locks. That is the situation right now. We acknowledge your request, and I personally want to give it positive consideration.”

Great news about a potential region-free NX, but it’s a shame about the 3DS. Thankfully, for those of us unconcerned about voiding warranties, there is a simple home hack to break the region lock on your 3DS:

Thank you Kotaku for providing us with this information.